Ultimate South Korea Guide Part 1: Top Places

South Korea is a vibrant destination brimming with history, culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. For those new to traveling, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect trip. That’s why having a comprehensive guide is essential, especially for first timers.  Whether you’re embarking on your very first adventure or just curious about what South Korea has to offer, these guides will help you navigate through the country’s must-see sights and experiences. 

Top Destinations for First Timers 

There are so many beautiful sights to see in South Korea, which makes it difficult to plan your itinerary if you have a limited amount of time. Here are our picks for the best places you should pay a visit to when in South Korea!

Gyeongbokgung Palace

This is a must-try activity for someone who is first time in South Korea. The palace is closed during Tuesdays and the changing of guards starts at 10AM and 2PM at noon. In the Gwanghwamun area, a reenactment of the guard-changing ceremony from the Joseon dynasty is held, featuring historically accurate costumes and weapons based on authentic records from that era. You can enter Gyeongbokgung Palace for free if you are wearing a hanbok. There are numerous shops in the area that provide hanbok rentals, and to make the experience even more memorable, consider hiring a photographer to capture your photos as you explore the palace. 

Namsan Seoul Tower

The famous lovelocks at South Korea can be found at Namsan Seoul Tower. Aside from this, the tower gives you a great view of the whole city and beyond. The observation deck offers amazing sights, making it a popular place for locals and tourists who want to see the city from above. It’s advisable to arrive around 4 PM to catch the sunset and stay a bit longer to see the tower light up and the dazzling city lights. If you’re up for a hike, you can drop at the foot of the mountain and climb your way up to the tower while there’s also an option of riding a cable car. You may purchase your ticket at the Namsan Cable Car Station near Myeong-dong subway station exit 4. 

Cheonggyecheon Stream

This is one of the most filmed locations in South Korea, located in Seoul, making it a must-visit for K-drama fans. The stream stretches 11 km, and tourists love walking along its paths or dipping their feet in the water. At night, there are various activities organized by the Seoul government. During our visit, there was a book event where tourists could read while relaxing by the stream.

We recommend going on weekdays, as it can get quite crowded on weekends when locals also flock to the area. There’s a lot of other places to try aside from the lists above. It is also recommended to visit Han River Park in the afternoon and rent a bike to go around the river, at night you can enjoy a bowl of ramyeon close to the river. Additionally, you must visit the Dongdaemun Design Plaza for its great architecture, visit museums, exhibitions and more.  

Hanok Villages 

Eunpyeong Hanok sits at the base of Bukhansan Mountain, making it even more beautiful with its mountain views. The hanoks in South Korea are privately owned by local residents, so it’s important to be respectful while exploring. Unlike the more crowded Bukchon Hanok Village, this spot offers a quieter experience, allowing you to take photos without the usual crowds in the background. One of the highlights of the village is the popular café, 1in1jan (Irin Iljan), which boasts breathtaking views of both the hanok village and Bukhansan Mountain. Visitors often begin lining up as soon as the café opens. We recommend arriving at the village around 10 AM since the café opens at 11 AM. Though the lines can be long, the wait is definitely worth it once you get a seat. 

Seoul has several hanok villages that offer a glimpse into Korea’s history. Bukchon Hanok Village is one of the most famous, located just a short walk from Gyeongbokgung Palace. Another notable village is Ikseon-dong Hanok Village. This area is vibrant, filled with cafés, restaurants, pubs, and souvenir shops. Both villages provide unique experiences for visitors interested in traditional Korean culture. 

Night Markets 

If you’re visiting Seoul for the first time, we recommend staying in Myeongdong. It’s a busy area full of life and energy. The streets are lined with shops, restaurants, and cafés. Myeongdong has the biggest Daiso and Olive Young store making it a popular place for tourists. You’ll also find many souvenirs stands to explore. And be sure to try the delicious street food while you’re there. 

In addition to the Myeongdong Night Market, there are other markets in Seoul worth exploring. Namdaemun and Gwangjang Market are two great options for those looking for cheaper street food. These markets are known for their wide variety of traditional Korean snacks and dishes. While Myeongdong is popular with tourists, it has become somewhat internationalized in recent years. For a more authentic Korean experience, we recommend visiting Namdaemun or Gwangjang Market. These two markets offer a more local atmosphere and feature foods that are enjoyed by residents. You’ll find everything from savory pancakes to freshly made noodles. Exploring these markets is a must for anyone who wants to truly experience Seoul’s Street food culture. 

Read our other South Korea Guides for more insights what the beautiful country has to offer!

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